In a significant move for peace in Mindanao, fifty-four former combatants in Basilan province have been granted legal protection as they seek official amnesty from the government.
Ceremonial Issuance of Protection Documents
The National Amnesty Commission (NAC), through the Local Amnesty Board (LAB) in Basilan, formally handed out Safe Conduct Passes to the applicants on Monday, December 1. The ceremony took place at the Ra’ayat Hall within the Basilan Government Center in Sta. Clara village, Lamitan City.
According to the 1101st Infantry Brigade (1101Bde), the recipients comprise 52 members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and two from the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). These crucial documents legally shield the holders from arrest or prosecution while their formal applications for amnesty undergo a thorough evaluation and review process.
A Collaborative Effort for Lasting Peace
The successful distribution was spearheaded by a dedicated group of officials. Leading the effort was Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, who chairs the Basilan Local Amnesty Board. She was supported by Colonel Philip Fagel, deputy commander of the 1101Bde and co-vice chairperson of the board, and Police Colonel Cerrazid Umabong of the Basilan Police Provincial Office.
The event drew a notable gathering of leaders and stakeholders, including Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman and Brigadier General Frederick Sales, commander of the 1101Bde. Also present were representatives from the NAC, MILF Commander Rajan Abdulrahman, MNLF's Abdulrahman Jovel, and various local peace advocates, underscoring the broad-based support for the initiative.
Milestone for Basilan's Peace Journey
The 1101Bde highlighted that this event marks a pivotal milestone in Basilan's ongoing pursuit of sustainable peace, unity, and development. The brigade stated that the initiative directly supports the national peace agenda by enabling former combatants to reintegrate into society and transition toward lawful and peaceful civilian lives.
This achievement is seen as a product of the strong collaboration between national agencies, local government units, the security sector, and peace partners. The issuance of the Safe Conduct Passes is a concrete confidence-building measure, fostering an environment where the peace process can move forward on the ground.
